Conditioning, Operant (also known as Instrumental Learning, Learning, Instrumental): Learning situations in which the sequence responses of the subject are instrumental in producing reinforcement. When the correct response occurs, which involves the selection from among a repertoire of responses, the subject is immedia

NIH MeSH · D003216Psychiatry and Psychology

Conditioning, Operant

Also known asInstrumental Learning · Learning, Instrumental · Instrumental Learnings · Learnings, Instrumental · Operant Conditioning · Conditionings, Operant · Operant Conditionings

Definition

Learning situations in which the sequence responses of the subject are instrumental in producing reinforcement. When the correct response occurs, which involves the selection from among a repertoire of responses, the subject is immediately reinforced.

MeSH classification

  • F02.463.425.179.509

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Related concepts

Automatism

Automatic, mechanical, and apparently undirected behavior which is outside of conscious control.

Avoidance Learning

A response to a cue that is instrumental in avoiding a noxious experience.

Conditioning, Classical

Learning that takes place when a conditioned stimulus is paired with an unconditioned stimulus.

Conditioning, Eyelid

Reflex closure of the eyelid occurring as a result of classical conditioning.

Conditioning, Psychological

Simple form of learning involving the formation, strengthening, or weakening of an association between a stimulus and a response.

Common questions about Conditioning, Operant

What does Conditioning, Operant mean in medicine?
Learning situations in which the sequence responses of the subject are instrumental in producing reinforcement. When the correct response occurs, which involves the selection from among a repertoire of responses, the subject is immediately reinforced. This definition is taken from the National Library of Medicine's MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) 2026 release, which is the standard vocabulary used to index PubMed and most medical literature.
Is Conditioning, Operant known by any other names?
Yes. Conditioning, Operant is also referred to as Instrumental Learning, Learning, Instrumental, Instrumental Learnings, Learnings, Instrumental in different clinical, research and patient-facing contexts. The MeSH descriptor groups all of these synonyms under a single canonical concept so research and records stay consistent.
Where does Conditioning, Operant sit in the medical classification?
Conditioning, Operant falls under the broader medical category "Psychiatry and Psychology" in the MeSH hierarchy (tree numbers: F02.463.425.179.509). Browsing the related concepts on this page takes you to neighbouring topics in the same branch of medicine.
Where can I get a plain-language explanation of Conditioning, Operant?
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Source: NIH MeSH 2026 (D003216) — National Library of Medicine, public domain. View official MeSH record ↗